CRPS-INVESTIGATIONS
SUMMARY
1. Triple-phase bone scan: diffuse increased activity with juxta-articular uptake on the delayed (phase 3) images is the most sensitive indicator for RSD; sensitivity 96%, specificity 97%, and PPV 88% (Harbert et al., 1996; Kozin, 1981; Simon & Carlson, 1980).
2. Infrared thermography: increased warmth of the involved limb (> 1oC difference).
3. Resting Sweat Output (RSO), Resting Skin Temperature (RST), Quantitative Sudomotor Axon Reflex Test (QSRT): assessment of sudomotor changes.
4. EMG as predictor for CRPS (Cheng & Hong, 1995).
5. X-ray: needs 30%-50% bone demineralization before detection. Questionable use.
6. To exclude other differentials: FBC, CRP, ESR, CT, MRI scans.
Reference(s)
Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.
